3 Axis CNC router

[JonnyFive]

Hi Joe,

Great thread and videos, it's really helping me in the planning of my CNC design. I've been watching your videos on routing aluminium and am thinking this would be a good cost saving way for me to go. I have the same router as you (Dewalt DW621) but mine only has a 1/4" collet, you mentioned yours has a 1/2" collet in your video - did you get an adaptor or fit a new collet? I don't think I would trust a 1/4" shank bit to be strong enough routing aluminium.

Keep up the good work!

Cheers!

[JAZZCNC]

I don't think I would trust a 1/4" shank bit to be strong enough routing aluminium.

1/4" shank handles cutting aluminium no problem. I cut ali with 6mm tool all the time.

Sent from my SM-T580 using Tapatalk

[JonnyFive]

Really? That's good to know. What sort of cutter do I need and what depth of cut can I expect?

Thanks for your help!

[JAZZCNC]

Really? That's good to know. What sort of cutter do I need and what depth of cut can I expect?

Thanks for your help!

Single flute cutter works well for aluminum if your new to cutting because gives better chip clearance. Regards Depth of cut and feeds etc then can't tell you because it's very machine and material dependant. What works for me probably won't work for you.
Lots of variables come into play and machine stiffness along with spindle power play big role so you'll need to use trial and error. Expect to snap a few cutters.

To practise don't use cheap Aluminium like 1050 sheet as it's more difficult to cut because it's sticky like chewing gum and not easy to cut without gumming up cutters unless know what doing.

[Nealieboyee]

Also avoid AlTin coated carbide cutters if you're cutting aluminium. Use uncoated carbide. I learned this the hard way...